Algal bloom keeps swimmers out of Lochindorb
Swimmers and paddlers who turned up to enjoy the cool waters of Lochindorb during the recent hot weather found it was too dangerous to enter.
Highland Council’s environmental health department has put up a sign warning people not to enter the water because of “blue-green algal blooms”.
The notice states that there is a high concentration of the plant in the water and that “swallowing the water or algal scum can cause stomach upsets or more serious health effects”.
The notice also says that contact with the algae can also cause skin problems.
The sign concludes: “It is a sensible precaution for you, your children and animals to avoid contact with the scum and the water close to it.”
Recent samples taken by SEPA at Lochindorb have indicated the presence of blue-green algae. Lochindorb is situated near the A939, approximately six miles north of Grantown-on-Spey.
A Highland Council spokeswoman said: “Highland Council has posted notices next to the loch warning that contact with the algal scum should be avoided. Adjoining landowners are being advised of the situation as have NHS Highland. There are no reports of any effects on people, livestock or other animals.”
He added: “The level of its toxicity can fluctuate; it can appear one day, be dispersed by the wind and mixing and re-accumulate at any time.”
